Eugene Martin

Eugene "Gene" Martin of Salem, Missouri was born November 10, 1939, in Carbondale, Illinois to the union of Charles Martin and Minerva Duncan Martin. He left this world on Monday April 24, 2023, at Silverstone Place at the age of 83 years.
Gene was united in marriage to Betty Ridgway on June 1, 1963. To this union two children were born Brian Martin and Kimberly Martin Donnell. Gene and Betty shared over 60 years of love and adventure.
Gene served in the United States Air Force for 4 years. After the air force Gene attended Southern Illinois University where he graduated with a degree in finance. Gene worked for MFA Insurance in Illinois to start his career for 12 years. MFA Insurance became Shelter Insurance. In 1981 the opportunity came for him to be the agent in Salem Missouri. For the next 42 years this became the family business Betty his wife has been by his side, son Brian joined him since 1991. Daughter Kimberly works as an agent and underwriter in the insurance industry as well. Gene and Betty traveled a lot with Shelter Insurance winning trips awarded for his hard work. Gene attended Salem Methodist Church. He served his community in Rotary, and was a member of the JC'S, Chamber of Commerce. He also was a member of the American Legion Post #99 and the Eagles Club. Gene was a kind gentleman who always treated people with respect and cared for all as if they were his family giving fatherly advice to 16-year-olds telling them just because you have a lot of gas pedal doesn't mean you have to use it all or always watch your surroundings. He was a true pillar of this community and will be deeply missed.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Minerva Martin, sisters, Judy Batteau, and Vickie Caldwell. Grandchildren, Sean Martin, and Mattie Donnell. Stepbrother Jimmy Martin.
Those who are left to treasure his memory and to continue his legacy are his wife Betty of the home. Children, Brian Martin and friend Linda Stice of Salem, Missouri, Kimberly Donnell and husband Steve of Branson West, Missouri. Sister Lucille Kay Marler and husband Darrell of Napa, Idaho. Grandchildren; David Donnell and wife Jackie, Shannon Martin and husband Jeremy, Cassie Cunningham and husband Zack, Luke Scamell, Allie Donnell, Briana Alexander and husband Dallas and Tyler Martin. Great Grandchildren; Dawson Alexander, Ledger Alexander and Callie Cunningham. A host of nieces and nephews and many friends.
A Celebration of life for Gene Martin will be at a later date. In Lieu of flowers memorials are Kindly suggested to Gene's favorite charity Wounded Warrior Project. Cards are available at all James & Gahr Mortuary locations. Online condolences can be made at jamesgahrmortuary.com